By: Shawn Cox
Submitted: 2011-03-01 18:41:03 | Word Count: 562
When applying for a job cover letter should be sent to your resume. Your letter must be specific to the position you are applying for related skills and experience of those mentioned in the vacancy. An effective letter should tell the employer why you write, why you're the best person for the job, and when you will contact him.
Cover letters do more than introduce you and renewal of work to potential employers. They allow you to go in depth about important experiences / skills and relate them to job requirements. They show the employer that you are individualizing this job application. They also provide a sample of your written communication skills. This article gives some valuable tips to guide you through writing a cover letter.
Cover letter: structure
There are four main parts of the cover letter: heading, introduction, body and closing. Here are some tips on what to include in each section.
[ advertisement ]
Item
Provide contact information here. Include date. Also include the address of the company.
Introduction
Meet a person to contact letter. If you do not know his name, write Dear Sir / Madam. State the position you are applying for and if you heard about it. State why you believe you are the right candidate. Mention 2-3 key qualifications that will address the rest of the letter. You can name drop if you have a good link, but remember that some employers hate this practice.
Body
In the body of your letter, you must mention specifically how your qualifications meet the job you are applying. Focus each paragraph on one qualification. Give specific examples to show you where these skills and how they used them before. Refer to your resume, not repeat it. Tell a story, not just list your skills. Do not use contractions.
Closing
Close with a strong reminder of why you're a good candidate. Conclusion of your letter by thanking the employer for you considering for the position. Includes information on how to follow up.
Layout
Choose a Retail. Make sure your cover letter is pleasing to the eye. Note reviewer of your cover letter there are hundreds (if not thousands) of cover letters to look, so it is not easy for him to find the information you want to emphasize. Keep your cover letter short (no more than 1 page).
Use custom cover letter
Avoid common cover letter you get from books. If you are unsure how to write a targeted non-generic cover letter, you should consider using a professional service writing.
What to write and what not to write in cover letter
The purpose of the cover letter is to demonstrate that they meet or exceed the requirements listed in job description. It must prove that you are interested in the position and that you are available to accept the position if offered. Additional information also is not necessary.
Do not mention negative facts about you.
The cover letter is not the place to explain why you left or leaving an employer, why there are gaps in your employment dates, etc. These "negative" is best explained in person during the interview, so your personality can counter them. Try to avoid salary history in the cover letter. If the position specifically request your salary history, give a historical salary range and indicate that your salary requirements are flexible based on the capabilities of the position will provide.